Reviewed by Dr. Kari Badwi
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Reading time: three minutes
Parents are often caught off guard when they see what looks like a double row of teeth in their child’s mouth. Known as shark teeth, this happens when an adult tooth erupts behind a baby tooth. It may look concerning, but it’s a normal and temporary stage of dental development.
Table of Contents
Why “Shark Teeth” Happen
During normal tooth development, permanent teeth form underneath baby teeth, slowly dissolving their roots so they can loosen and fall out. Occasionally, a permanent tooth erupts slightly behind the baby one instead of underneath it.
Shark teeth are most common in the lower front area of the mouth, though they can appear in the upper front or molar regions as well.
Should You Be Concerned?
In most cases, the situation resolves on its own. As the baby tooth loosens, it will naturally fall out, and the adult tooth will shift forward into the proper position over time.
However, if the baby tooth remains firm for several months after the adult tooth has erupted, or if your child experiences discomfort, it is best to schedule a dental visit. Dr. Kari will check the spacing and determine whether a tooth extraction is needed to prevent alignment issues.
Could Shark Teeth Affect Future Alignment?
Most children’s permanent teeth settle into a nearly correct position once the baby tooth is gone. Shark teeth are typically an early sign of crowding or limited space in the jaw. When there is not enough room for teeth to move naturally, orthodontic treatment may be recommended later on.
During regular checkups, we monitor tooth alignment and jaw growth to make sure everything stays on track.
Supporting Healthy Tooth Development
You can help your child’s teeth grow and move into place naturally:
- Encourage gentle wiggling of any loose baby teeth
- Brush twice a day and floss once daily
- Schedule regular dental visits to check spacing and growth
Good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth decay and supports healthy tooth development as your child’s smile changes.
Pediatric Dental Care in SE Calgary
BabyTooth provides prevention-focused care that helps children feel safe, supported, and proud of their healthy smiles.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in SE Calgary, call (403) 873-1414 or visit us at Health Plus Building 200, 290 Midpark Way SE, Calgary, Alberta T2X 1P1.
FAQs
Are shark teeth in kids normal?
Yes, shark teeth or adult teeth growing behind or in front of baby teeth, are common and usually resolve naturally once the baby tooth falls out.
Will my child’s shark tooth move forward?
In most cases, yes. Once the baby tooth is gone, the permanent tooth shifts into its correct position within a few weeks or months.
Do kids with shark teeth need braces?
Not always. Shark teeth are a reliable predictor of limited space in the jaw, but some children’s teeth align normally on their own. Your pediatric dentist will monitor for any signs that orthodontic treatment may be needed later.
Is there a pediatric dentist near me that accepts CDCP?
BabyTooth in SE Calgary accepts the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and all government programs, including the Alberta Child Health Benefit (ACHB) and Alberta Works.
